Stigma is the disapproval of, or discrimination against, a person based on characteristics that distinguish them from other members of a society especially when this is unfair.

Stigma is associated with a lack of knowledge about how COVID-19 spreads, a need to blame someone, fears about disease and death, and gossip that spreads rumours and myths.

It can result in symptoms being ignored; discourage people from seeking healthcare if they develop symptoms and greater transmission taking place.

Some groups of people who may experience stigma during the COVID-19 pandemic include:

• People who tested positive for COVID-19, have recovered from being sick with COVID-19, or returnees released from COVID-19 quarantine
• Healthcare providers
• Quarantine/isolation facility staff
• The homeless

Coronavirus is not a death sentence.

Most people recover from COVID-19

Know your facts so you can correct information when needed. Share only facts and information confirmed by official health sources